Altitude sickness

What are the causes and risk factors for altitude sickness in dogs?

The cause of altitude sickness is the lower concentration of oxygen in the air, which decreases with increasing altitude. This means that your dog can take in less oxygen with each breath than at sea level. To compensate for this deficiency, your dog has to breathe faster and deeper, which leads to increased strain on the cardiovascular system. In addition, your dog will lose more fluid and electrolytes due to the increased breathing, which can lead to dehydration and a disturbed acid-base balance.

Not all dogs react the same way to altitude. Some factors can increase or decrease the risk of altitude sickness. These include:

• The speed of ascent: the faster you ascend to altitude with your dog, the less time his body has to adapt to the changing conditions. It is recommended not to climb more than 300 to 500 meters per day and to take a rest day every 1000 meters.
• The starting altitude: The higher you start with your dog, the greater the difference to the target altitude and the higher the risk of altitude sickness. If you come from a low altitude with your dog, you should give him at least one day to get used to the new altitude before you continue your ascent.
• The target altitude: The higher you go with your dog, the lower the oxygen concentration in the air and the higher the risk of altitude sickness. The first signs of altitude sickness can occur from an altitude of around 2500 meters. From an altitude of around 4000 meters, serious complications such as pulmonary or cerebral oedema can occur, which can be life-threatening.
• Physical condition: The fitter and healthier your dog is, the better it can adapt to the altitude. If your dog has chronic illnesses such as heart, lung or kidney problems, you should not take him to high altitudes or ask a vet for advice beforehand. Your dog's age and weight can also play a role. Older or overweight dogs are often less efficient and more susceptible to altitude sickness.
• The breed: Some dog breeds are better adapted to altitude than others. These include, for example, mountain or shepherd dogs such as Bernese Mountain Dogs, Border Collies or Tibetan Terriers. These dogs often have a larger lung capacity and a higher number of red blood cells, which improve oxygen transport. Other dog breeds such as pugs, bulldogs or boxers often have restricted breathing and are therefore less suitable for high altitudes.

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness in dogs?

The symptoms of altitude sickness in dogs can vary depending on the severity. The most common signs include

• Panting
• restlessness
• tiredness
• loss of appetite
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• Trembling
• Blue tongue or gums
• Cough
• Nosebleeds
• Unsteady gait
• Impaired consciousness
• Seizures

If you notice one or more of these symptoms in your dog, you should stop the descent immediately and seek veterinary advice. Altitude sickness can worsen quickly and lead to irreversible damage or even death.

How can you prevent altitude sickness in dogs?

The best way to prevent altitude sickness in dogs is to ascend slowly and gradually. You should keep the following tips in mind:

• Plan your route carefully and inform yourself about the altitude conditions. Avoid abrupt changes in altitude and do not climb more than 300 to 500 meters per day. Take a rest day every 1000 meters to give your dog time to acclimatize.
• Pay attention to your dog's physical signals. If you notice that your dog is slowing down, pausing more often or showing signs of discomfort, you should take a break or stop the ascent. Don't force your dog to keep going if he doesn't want to or can't.
• Ensure adequate fluid and food intake. Your dog loses more water and electrolytes through panting than usual. Therefore, give him fresh water to drink regularly and possibly add some salt or electrolyte powder. Feed your dog easily digestible and energy-rich food to cover his calorie requirements. Avoid heavy or fatty meals that can cause nausea or vomiting.
• Protect your dog from the cold and sun. Temperatures at high altitude can vary greatly and can get very low at night. Make sure your dog has a warm and dry place to sleep and cover him with a blanket if necessary. The sun's rays are also more intense at high altitudes and can lead to sunburn or eye irritation. Protect your dog with sun cream or a sun hat and avoid exposing him to direct sunlight for long periods of time.
• Consult a vet before traveling. If you are unsure whether your dog is suitable for traveling to high altitudes, you should ask a vet for advice beforehand. They can examine your dog and, if necessary, prescribe medication to help your dog adapt to the altitude. These include, for example, acetazolamide, which stimulates breathing, or dexamethasone, which reduces inflammation.